Context and Characters of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde

Robert Louis Stevenson and the Victorian Era

Robert Louis Stevenson, born in 1850 in Edinburgh, Scotland, wrote "Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde" in 1886. His family background, which included engineers, scientists, philosophers, and religious ministers, influenced the novel's themes.

Highlight: The Victorian era (1837-1901) was a time of great change, marked by the industrial revolution and advancements in science, literature, and medicine.

The population of England doubled during this period, and new discoveries constantly challenged people's perceptions.

Science and Religion in Victorian Society

The Victorian era witnessed significant scientific advancements, often conflicting with religious beliefs. This tension is reflected in Jekyll's experiments with separating the human soul.

Quote: "Jekyll and Hyde approaches this subject through Jekyll's work with separating the human soul."

Main Characters

Dr. Henry Jekyll

A respected doctor known for decency and charity, Jekyll struggles with his dual nature.

Quote: "the smile was struck out of his face and succeeded by an expression of such abject terror and despair."

Mr. Edward Hyde

Jekyll's alter ego, Hyde is described as a detestable, pre-human figure who commits atrocious acts without compassion.

Mr. Gabriel Utterson

A prosperous lawyer representing Victorian society's quest for rational explanations.

Quote: "a man of a rugged countenance that was never lighted by a smile."

Mr. Poole and Mr. Guest

Poole, Jekyll's loyal butler, and Guest, Utterson's clerk, play crucial roles in unraveling the mystery.

Quote: ""I think there's been foul play," said Poole, hoarsely."

Historical Context

Darwin and Evolution

Charles Darwin's "The Origin of Species" challenged religious beliefs, forcing people to choose between science and religion.

The Jack the Ripper Murders

These unsolved murders sparked public interest in the duality of human nature, mirroring themes in Jekyll and Hyde.

Healthcare and Death

The limited healthcare and shorter life expectancies of the Victorian era provide context for the novel's treatment of illness and death.

Highlight: A middle-class person might expect to live to 45, while a working-class person's life expectancy was much shorter.

This Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde analysis PDF provides a comprehensive overview of the novella's context, characters, and themes, making it an invaluable resource for students studying this Jekyll and Hyde study guide Victorian era free.